Food delivery apps like Grubhub, DoorDash and Uber Eats would be topic to new restrictions underneath a proposal transferring by way of the Iowa House.
House Study Bill 688 would require third-party delivery companies to enter into a proper settlement with eating places from which they ship. That means the apps couldn’t promote a restaurant’s menu with out first reaching an settlement with the restaurant proprietor.
Jessica Dunker, president of the Iowa Restaurant Association, mentioned many eating places found third-party delivery companies had posted their menu and supplied delivery of their food – with none communication between the companies.
“Does it seem like any other business can just take your stuff and sell it, and pretend they have a relationship with you?” Dunker requested.
The invoice additionally units statewide requirements for delivery autos. The food should be saved at a protected temperature and in a clear area within the automobile, and drivers could not smoke or vape. Drivers additionally wouldn’t be allowed to work for a rideshare app and decide up passengers whereas they’re delivering food.
Restaurants would be required to make use of a “tamper-resistant method” of packaging to forestall delivery drivers from taking a couple of bites on the way in which.
“This is important to us, because studies have shown that 28% of delivery drivers sample your food before they bring it to you,” Dunker mentioned.
Uber, guardian firm of the food delivery service Uber Eats, registered towards the proposal.
Lobbyist Kate Walton famous many provisions within the invoice are already in Uber’s insurance policies. She mentioned Uber was open to an amended model of the proposal, asking for a “less formalized” settlement course of between delivery firms and eating places.
“We do agree and support the language to prohibit the third party from hijacking the menu, raising the prices. We absolutely support that,” mentioned Matt Eide, one other Uber lobbyist. “What we’re looking for is a little freedom up front not to go in with a full-blown written contract on day one.”
The invoice handed by way of subcommittee and committee on Monday. It stays eligible for consideration previous this week’s legislative deadline.